The institutions founded by Late Keerrai Thamil Selvan have played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape, particularly for women, in the Pudukkottai district and surrounding areas. Born in 1936 in Keeranur, a small village in Pudukkottai District, Keerrai Thamil Selvan was a renowned social worker who dedicated over 50 years of his life to improving the socio-economic conditions of the underprivileged, particularly focusing on empowering women, eradicating illiteracy, and promoting education.
Keerrai Thamil Selvan was deeply committed to public service and social reform. His efforts were aimed at uplifting the suppressed and impoverished communities, abolishing the subjugation of women, and ensuring equal rights for all. His work also focused on eliminating illiteracy, promoting educational improvements, and fostering social unity.
Institutional History:
The Keerrai Thamil Selvan Teacher Training Institute was established in 1990-1991 at Ramachandrapuram, Kadiyapatti Village, Pudukkottai District. This was the first major step in fulfilling the long-held desire of the local community to provide education to women students. In 1992-1993, a new building was constructed in Sathiyamangalam, Kulathur Taluk, on land owned by the Trust. The Institute was then relocated to this new building.
However, the institution was temporarily suspended in 1993 due to a Supreme Court ruling. Despite this setback, the legacy of Keerrai Thamil Selvan was continued by his son, Keerrai Thamil Raja, who worked tirelessly to re-establish the institution. After a series of efforts and initiatives, the Keerrai Thamil Selvan Teacher Training Institute was re-accredited by the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) in 2003, ensuring its continuation and growth.
Keerrai Thamil Selvan passed away on 22nd March 1997, but his dedication to public service and education continues to inspire the institutions that bear his name. The institutions he founded remain a testament to his vision of empowering women through education and improving the community’s socio-economic conditions.